2 Chronicles 10:5

Rehoboam answered, "Come back to me in three days." So the people departed.

Study Bible

Rehoboam answered
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, is now king of Israel. His response here is crucial as it sets the stage for the division of the kingdom. His answer reflects a moment of decision-making that will have significant consequences. The name Rehoboam means "he who enlarges the people," yet his actions will lead to a division rather than an enlargement. This moment is pivotal in Israel's history, as it marks the beginning of the split between the northern and southern kingdoms.

“Come back to me in three days.”
The request for a three-day period is reminiscent of other biblical instances where time is given for reflection or decision-making, such as Jonah's three days in the belly of the fish or Jesus' three days in the tomb. This period allows Rehoboam to seek counsel, though ultimately he chooses poorly. The number three often signifies completeness or divine intervention in the Bible, suggesting that this was a divinely appointed time for Rehoboam to make a wise decision, which he fails to do.

So the people departed.
The people, representing the tribes of Israel, leave to await Rehoboam's decision. This departure signifies a moment of anticipation and uncertainty. Historically, the tribes were seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon's reign, particularly the labor and taxes required for his building projects. The people's departure also foreshadows the eventual division, as they are not yet united under Rehoboam's leadership. This moment is a turning point, as the people's response to Rehoboam's eventual decision will lead to the fulfillment of the prophecy given to Jeroboam by the prophet Ahijah, indicating the division of the kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rehoboam
The son of Solomon and the grandson of David, Rehoboam became king of Israel after Solomon's death. His reign is marked by the division of the united kingdom into Israel and Judah.

2. The People
The Israelites who approached Rehoboam seeking relief from the heavy burdens imposed by Solomon. Their request and Rehoboam's response led to significant consequences for the nation.

3. Shechem
The place where Rehoboam went to be crowned king. It holds historical significance as a site of covenant renewal and leadership decisions in Israel's history.

4. The Three Days
The period Rehoboam asked for before giving his decision. This time was meant for consultation and reflection, though it ultimately led to poor counsel and a divided kingdom.

5. The Division of the Kingdom
The event that followed Rehoboam's harsh response to the people's request, leading to the split of the united kingdom into the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wise Counsel
Rehoboam's decision to reject the advice of the elders in favor of his peers' counsel serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of seeking and heeding wise, experienced advice.

The Consequences of Leadership Decisions
Leadership decisions have far-reaching consequences. Rehoboam's choice led to the division of a nation, reminding us that leaders must consider the long-term impact of their actions.

The Value of Patience and Reflection
The three-day period Rehoboam requested was an opportunity for reflection and seeking God's guidance, which he failed to utilize properly. This teaches us the value of patience and seeking divine wisdom in decision-making.

The Role of Humility in Leadership
Rehoboam's failure to listen to the people's grievances highlights the need for humility in leadership. Leaders should be willing to listen and serve rather than dominate and impose.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Rehoboam's decision-making process about the importance of seeking wise counsel in our own lives?

2. How does the division of the kingdom under Rehoboam's rule illustrate the consequences of ignoring godly wisdom?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of seeking God's wisdom, as mentioned in James 1:5, to our daily decisions?

4. How does Rehoboam's account challenge us to reflect on the type of leaders we follow and the advice we choose to accept?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our leadership, whether in family, work, or community, is characterized by humility and a willingness to listen?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
This chapter provides a parallel account of Rehoboam's decision and the resulting division of the kingdom, offering additional insights into the events and decisions made.

Proverbs 15:22
Highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel, contrasting with Rehoboam's choice to follow the advice of his peers rather than the elders.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, a principle Rehoboam neglected, leading to his downfall.